The TESL Certificate provides undergraduate-level preparation to teach English to speakers of other languages. It is especially useful for people who want to teach in non-university settings internationally or limited situations in the U.S. The TESL Certificate also combines well with a major in a language-related field such as Applied Linguistics, World Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education, and other social sciences. Students may enroll in the program as undergraduates or as post-baccalaureate students.
Requirements (28 credits)
In addition to fulfilling minimum University requirements, the following courses are required:
Course | Course Description |
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LING 390 Introduction to Linguistics (4 credits). Start here. LING 390 is a prerequisite for many other courses. | A general introduction to the study of linguistics and the tools for conducting linguistic analysis. This course includes a basic survey of phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, and a brief overview of other topics such as language in social contexts. This course is a prerequisite for many 400 level-courses in the department. |
LING 392 Structure of the English Language (4 credits) | A study of basic English grammar with an emphasis on describing grammatical forms and their functions in communication. |
LING 438 Second Language Acquisition (4 credits) | An introduction to main aspects of second language acquisition from sociolinguistic and psycholinguistic perspectives. Content includes theories of second language acquisition from sociolinguistic and psycholinguistic perspectives. Content includes theories of second language acquisition, cognitive processes, the effects of linguistic environment, individual variables affecting SLA, and the relationship between first and second language. The course provides practice with observing and analyzing learner language. Recommended: LING 390, 392 |
LING 471 Understanding the International Experience (4 credits) | Examination of communication-based dimensions of an international or intercultural experience, including teaching English to speakers of other Languages. Development of strategies and activities required to meet the challenges of teaching, working, or doing research in an international/intercultural setting. All linguistics and TESL certificate students must register for LING 471/571; however, this course is also offered as INTL 471. Course may be taken only once for credit. |
LING 477 TESOL Methods I (4 credits) | The first in a two-course sequence on classroom teaching. Theoretical and practical perspectives on classroom teaching and learning. Topics include lesson planning, learning through reflection, scaffolding, and teaching specific language skills. Some out-of-class time is required for English language classroom observations and projects. |
LING 478 TESOL Methods II (4 credits) | The second in a two-course sequence on classroom teaching. Topics include advanced lesson planning, materials development, and teaching specific language skills not covered in Methods I. Some out-of-class time is required for English language classroom observations and group projects. Prerequisite: LING 477/577. |
LING 409 Language Teaching Practicum (4 credits) | Design and implement lessons at an assigned location that address the needs of language learners. Examine strategies and create materials related to teaching this specific population at weekly meetings with an experienced educator and your peers. Be observed teaching your class and receive feedback from the instructor. |
Language Requirement
- Students who are non-native speakers of English can satisfy the TESL Certificate's second language requirement by having a TOEFL PBT score of 550, IELTS 6.5, or TOEFL iBT score of 80.
- Native speakers of English must have at least one year of coursework in a second language. If you have not fulfilled this requirement at the time of admission, it can be fulfilled by taking language courses concurrently with the certificate courses.
Advising and grading requirements: By the end of their first term of study, students must consult with the Applied Linguistics faculty advisor about their plans for completing the Certificate. All courses used to satisfy the Certificate requirements must be graded C or above. Courses taken for a "pass" grade during the Covid pandemic are also acceptable for fulfilling requirements. At least twelve of the 28 credits must be completed at PSU.